Fluid conduit connector system

ABSTRACT

A fluid conduit connector includes a monolithic body having a first opening at a first side and a second opening at a second side. A throughbore extends from the first opening to the second opening. A first array of holes in the first side is positioned around the first opening, each hole of the first array of holes terminating within the body. A second array of holes in the first side is positioned around the first array of holes, each hole of the second array of holes extending through the body to the second side.

BACKGROUND Field

Embodiments described herein generally relate to a system for connectingfluid conduits, valves, and the like.

Description of the Related Art

The connecting of fluid conduits may be achieved by engaging threads ofone conduit with corresponding complementary threads of another conduit.An alternative to a threaded connection is a bolted flanged connection.Some fluid conduit systems, such as those used for well treatments inthe oil and gas industry, are used temporarily in a series of differentlocations. These fluid conduit systems are successively assembled at awork site, used to convey fluids, disassembled, transported to anothersite, reassembled, and so on. It is desirable for the connections ofsuch systems to be robust and reliable, yet facilitate rapid assemblyand disassembly.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure generally relates to a fluid conduit connectionsystem.

In one embodiment, a fluid conduit connector includes a monolithic bodyhaving a first opening at a first side and a second opening at a secondside. A throughbore extends from the first opening to the secondopening. A first array of holes in the first side is positioned aroundthe first opening, each hole of the first array of holes terminatingwithin the body. A second array of holes in the first side is positionedaround the first array of holes, each hole of the second array of holesextending through the body to the second side.

In one embodiment, a fluid conduit connector system includes a firstfluid conduit connector including a first body. The first body has afirst opening at a first side, a second opening at a second side, athroughbore extending from the first opening to the second opening, afirst array of holes in the first side positioned around the firstopening, each hole of the first array of holes terminating within thefirst body, and a second array of holes in the first side positionedaround the first array of holes, each hole of the second array of holesextending through the first body to the second side. The fluid conduitconnector system further includes a second fluid conduit connectorincluding a second body. The second body has a first opening at a firstside, a second opening at a second side, a throughbore extending fromthe first opening to the second opening, a first array of holes in thesecond side positioned around the second opening, each hole of the firstarray of holes terminating within the second body, and a second array ofholes in the first side positioned around the first opening. The fluidconduit connector system further includes a plurality of connectionrods. Upon assembly, the first side of the second body is positionedadjacent to and facing the second side of the first body, the firstopening of the second body is aligned with the second opening of thefirst body, and each connection rod extends through a corresponding holeof the second array of holes in the first body from the first side ofthe first body, out of the second side of the first body, and into acorresponding hole of the second array of holes in the second body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the above recited features of the presentdisclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description ofthe disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference toembodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Itis to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate onlytypical embodiments of this disclosure and are therefore not to beconsidered limiting of its scope, for the disclosure may admit to otherequally effective embodiments.

FIGS. 1A-B show an embodiment of a fluid conduit connector of a fluidconduit connector system.

FIGS. 2A-C show two fluid conduit connectors of the embodiment of FIGS.1A-B coupled together.

FIG. 3A shows a connection stud for a flange.

FIG. 3B shows a connection rod.

FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a fluid conduit connector.

FIGS. 5A-E show another embodiment of a fluid conduit connector and afluid conduit connector system.

FIGS. 6A-C show another embodiment of a fluid conduit connector and afluid conduit connector system.

FIGS. 7A-B show an embodiment of a valve assembly.

FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of a valve assembly.

FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of a valve assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure concern connections for fluidconduits, and are particularly suited for use with fluid conduits that,in use, are subject to repeated assembly and disassembly. Examplesinclude conduits that are used in oil and gas applications, such as whenpumping treatment fluids, such as acids and fracturing fluids, intowells.

FIGS. 1A-B show an embodiment of a fluid conduit connector 2 of a fluidconduit connector system (46, FIGS. 2A-C). The fluid conduit connector 2has a body 4. Although the body 4 may include a plurality of components,in some embodiments the body 4 may be monolithic. The body 4 may be castas a single block. The body 4 may be machined out of a single block. Insome embodiments, the body 4 may form at least part of a valve body. Insuch embodiments, the valve body may contain one or more valvecomponents. The body 4 may have a first side 6 and a second side 8. Thesecond side 8 may be opposite to the first side 6. The first side 6 mayhave a first opening 10, and the second side 8 may have a second opening12. A throughbore 14 may extend from the first opening 10 to the secondopening 12. The throughbore 14 may be configured to convey a fluidbetween the first side 6 and the second side 8.

The first side 6 may have a first sealing surface 16. The first sealingsurface 16 may surround the first opening 10. The first sealing surface16 may be recessed into the first side 6. The first sealing surface 16may be recessed into a raised face 18 surrounding the first opening 10.The raised face 18 may be sized in accordance with a raised face of astandard ring type joint flange. The second side 8 may have a secondsealing surface 20. The second sealing surface 20 may surround thesecond opening 12. The second sealing surface 20 may be recessed intothe second side 8. The second sealing surface 20 may be recessed into araised face 22 surrounding the second opening 12. The raised face 22 maybe sized in accordance with a raised face of a standard ring type jointflange.

The first side 6 may have a first array 24 of holes 26. The first array24 of holes 26 may be positioned around the first opening 10. As shown,the first array 24 has eight holes symmetrically positioned around thefirst opening 10, however, the holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes26 may number, be sized, and be arranged in a pattern that substantiallymatches a number, size, and pattern of holes on a flange. For example,the number, size and pattern of holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes26 may be arranged to substantially match the hole number, size andpattern of holes of a flange that meets one or more specifications ofone or more of the American Petroleum Institute (API), the AmericanNational Standards Institute (ANSI), or the American Society ofMechanical Engineers (ASME).

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 mayterminate within the body 4. In some embodiments, each hole 26 of thefirst array 24 of holes 26 may not terminate within the body 4. In someembodiments, selected holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 mayterminate within the body 4, and other holes 26 of the first array 24 ofholes 26 may extend through the body 4. In some embodiments, those holes26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 that extend through the body 4 mayextend through the body 4 to the second side 8 of the body 4.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maybe threaded. In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 ofholes 26 may not be threaded. In some embodiments, selected holes 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 may be threaded, and other holes 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 may not be threaded. In some embodiments,those holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 that are threaded maybe threaded along a portion of a length of each hole 26.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maybe configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92 (FIG. 3A).In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maybe configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92 whereby thecorresponding connection stud 92 may be threaded into the respectivehole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 to form a threaded connection.The threaded connection may be tightened in order to secure a component,such as a flange, to the body 4.

The first side 6 may have a second array 28 of holes 30. As shown, thesecond array 28 has four holes although any number of holes 30 may beused. The second array 28 of holes 30 may be positioned around the firstarray 24 of holes 26. For example, the second array 28 of holes 30 mayinclude first 32 and second 34 groups of holes 30, and the first array24 of holes 26 may be positioned between the first 32 and second 34groups of holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30.

In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 mayterminate within the body 4. In some embodiments, each hole 30 of thesecond array 28 of holes 30 may not terminate within the body 4. In someembodiments, selected holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 mayterminate within the body 4, and other holes 30 of the second array 28of holes 30 may extend through the body 4. In some embodiments, thoseholes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 that extend through the body4 may extend through the body 4 to the second side 8 of the body 4.

In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 maybe threaded. In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array 28 ofholes 30 may not be threaded. In some embodiments, selected holes 30 ofthe second array 28 of holes 30 may be threaded, and other holes 30 ofthe second array 28 of holes 30 may not be threaded. In someembodiments, those holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 that arethreaded may be threaded along a portion of a length of each hole 30.

The second side 8 may have a third array 36 of holes 38. In someembodiments, the third array 36 of holes 38 may be omitted. If present,the third array 36 of holes 38 may be positioned around the secondopening 12. As shown, the third array 36 has eight holes symmetricallypositioned around the second opening 12, however, the holes 38 of thethird array 36 of holes 38 may number, be sized, and arranged in apattern that substantially matches a number, size, and pattern of holeson a flange. For example, the number, size, and pattern of holes 38 ofthe third array 36 of holes 38 may be arranged to substantially matchthe number, size, and pattern of holes of a flange that meets one ormore specifications of one or more of the American Petroleum Institute(API), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), or the AmericanSociety of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

In some embodiments, each hole 38 of the third array 36 of holes 38 mayterminate within the body 4. In some embodiments, each hole 38 of thethird array 36 of holes 38 may be threaded. In some embodiments, eachhole 38 of the third array 36 of holes 38 may not be threaded. In someembodiments, selected holes 38 of the third array 36 of holes 38 may bethreaded, and other holes 38 of the third array 36 of holes 38 may notbe threaded. In some embodiments, those holes 38 of the third array 36of holes 38 that are threaded may be threaded along a portion of alength of each hole 38.

In some embodiments, each hole 38 of the third array 36 of holes 38 maybe configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92. In someembodiments, each hole 38 of the third array 36 of holes 38 may beconfigured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92 whereby thecorresponding connection stud 92 may be threaded into the respectivehole 38 of the third array 36 of holes 38 to form a threaded connection.The threaded connection may be tightened in order to secure a component,such as a flange, to the body 4.

In embodiments in which each hole 30, or a selected number of holes 30,of the second array 28 of holes 30 extend to the second side 8 of thebody 4, the second array 28 of holes 30 may be positioned around thethird array 36 of holes 38 (if present). For example, the second array28 of holes 30 may include third 40 and fourth 42 groups of holes 30 asseen on the second side 8, and the first array 24 of holes 26 may bepositioned between the third 40 and fourth 42 groups of holes 30 of thesecond array 28 of holes 30. In some embodiments, the third 40 andfourth 42 groups of holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 as seenon the second side 8 may correspond, respectively, with the first 32 andsecond 34 groups of holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 on thefirst side 6 of the body 4.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-B, the fluid conduit connector 2 may beconfigured as a valve. One or more components 44 of the valve may beconnected to the body 4.

FIGS. 2A-C show a fluid conduit connector system 46 in which two fluidconduit connectors of the embodiment of FIGS. 1A-B are coupled togetheras an assembly. FIG. 2A is an external view of the assembly, FIG. 2B isa longitudinal cross section along line 2B-2B, and FIG. 2C is alongitudinal cross section through the assembly along line 2C-2C. Forclarity, the valve components 44 depicted in FIGS. 1A-B have beenomitted.

As illustrated, a first fluid conduit connector 48 has a first body 50that may also function as a valve body, and a second fluid conduitconnector 52 has a second body 54 that may also function as a valvebody. The first body 50 and second body 54 each have first sides 56, 60and second sides 58, 62. Each first side 56, 60 has a first opening 64,68, and each second side 58, 62 has a second opening 66, 70. Each of thefirst body 50 and second body 54 has a throughbore 72, 74 that extendsbetween the respective first openings 64, 68 and second openings 66, 70.FIG. 2B shows the first side 60 of the second body 54 positionedadjacent to and facing the second side 58 of the first body 50. Thefirst opening 68 of the second body 54 is aligned with the secondopening 66 of the first body 50. A raised face 76 on the first side 60of the second body 54 is positioned adjacent to a raised face 78 on thesecond side 58 of the first body 50. As shown, the raised face 76 on thefirst side 60 of the second body 54 may contact the raised face 78 onthe second side 58 of the first body 50. In some embodiments, the raisedface 76 on the first side 60 of the second body 54 may not contact theraised face 78 on the second side 58 of the first body 50. A seal 80 isshown disposed in a recess 79 in the first side 60 of the second body 54and in a recess 81 in the second side 58 of the first body 50.

FIGS. 2A-C show the first 48 and second 52 fluid conduit connectorsjoined together by connection rods 82. Each connection rod 82 extendsthrough a corresponding hole 84 in the first body 50 and through acorresponding hole 86 in the second body 54. In some embodiments, eachconnection rod 82 may be threaded at one end. In some embodiments, eachconnection rod 82 may be threaded at both ends. In some embodiments,each connection rod 82 may be threaded along a portion of its length. Insome embodiments, each connection rod 82 may be threaded alongsubstantially the entire length. As illustrated, each connection rod 82is secured in place by fasteners 88, such as nuts, at each end. In someembodiments, one end of at least one connection rod 82 may include abolt head, thereby obviating the need for a separate fastener 88 at thatend.

In some embodiments, the sizing and number of connection rods 82 providefor the connection between the first 48 and second 52 fluid conduitconnectors to have a mechanical characteristic that meets or exceeds astandard for an equivalent flanged connection. For example, FIG. 2Ashows the first side 56 of the first body 50 of the first fluid conduitconnector 48 having a first array 24 of holes 26 positioned around thefirst opening 64. The holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maynumber, be sized, and be arranged in a pattern that substantiallymatches a number, size, and pattern of holes on a standard flange. Thenumber, size, and pattern of holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26may comply with specifications of one or more of the American PetroleumInstitute (API), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), orthe American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

Each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 may be configured toreceive a corresponding connection stud, such as the connection stud 92depicted in FIG. 3A. Each connection stud 92 has a longitudinal axis 94and a nominal cross sectional area 96 measured transverse to thelongitudinal axis 94. In FIGS. 2A-C, the connection between the firstfluid conduit connector 48 and the second fluid conduit connector 52 iseffected by the connection rods 82, such as the connection rod 82depicted in FIG. 3B. Each connection rod 82 has a longitudinal axis 98and a nominal cross sectional area 100 measured transverse to thelongitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the connection rod 82 nominalcross sectional area 100 multiplied by the total number of connectionrods 82 used to connect two fluid conduit connectors together may begreater than, or equal to, the connection stud 92 nominal crosssectional area 96 multiplied by the total number of connection studs 92that would be used in the first array 24 of holes 26 to secure a flangeto the first conduit connector 48.

FIG. 4 is an end view of one embodiment of a fluid conduit connector,showing a side of the fluid conduit connector. The fluid conduitconnector 102 has a body 104. Although the body 104 may include aplurality of components, in some embodiments the body 104 may bemonolithic. The body 104 may be cast as a single block. The body 104 maybe machined out of a single block. In some embodiments, the body 104 mayform at least part of a valve body. In such embodiments, the valve bodymay contain one or more valve components. As shown in FIG. 4, the body104 has a side 106 with an opening 108. A throughbore may extend fromthe opening 108 to an opposite side of the body 104. The throughbore maybe configured to convey a fluid.

The side 106 may have a sealing surface 110. The sealing surface 110 maysurround the opening 108. The sealing surface 110 may be recessed intothe side 104. The sealing surface 110 may be recessed into a raised face111 surrounding the opening 108. The raised face 111 may be sized inaccordance with a raised face of a standard ring type joint flange.

The side may have a first array 24 of holes 26. The first array 24 ofholes 26 may be positioned around the opening 108. As shown, the firstarray 24 has sixteen holes symmetrically positioned around the opening108, however, the holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 may number,be sized, and be arranged in a pattern that substantially matches anumber, size, and pattern of holes on a flange. For example, the number,size and pattern of holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 may bearranged to substantially match the hole number, size and pattern ofholes of a flange that meets one or more specifications of one or moreof the American Petroleum Institute (API), the American NationalStandards Institute (ANSI), or the American Society of MechanicalEngineers (ASME).

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 mayterminate within the body 104. In some embodiments, each hole 26 of thefirst array 24 of holes 26 may not terminate within the body 104. Insome embodiments, selected holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26may terminate within the body 104, and other holes 26 of the first array24 of holes 26 may extend through the body 104. In some embodiments,those holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 that extend through thebody 104 may extend through the body 104 to the opposite side of thebody 104.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maybe threaded. In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 ofholes 26 may not be threaded. In some embodiments, selected holes 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 may be threaded, and other holes 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 may not be threaded. In some embodiments,those holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 that are threaded maybe threaded along a portion of a length of each hole 26.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maybe configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92 (FIG. 3A).In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maybe configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92 whereby thecorresponding connection stud 92 may be threaded into the respectivehole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 to form a threaded connection.The threaded connection may be tightened in order to secure a component,such as a flange, to the body 104.

The side 106 may have a second array 28 of holes 30. As shown, thesecond array 28 has eight holes although any number of holes 30 may beused. The second array 28 of holes 30 may be positioned around the firstarray 24 of holes 26. For example, the second array 28 of holes 30 mayinclude first 32 and second 34 groups of holes 30, and the first array24 of holes 26 may be positioned between the first and second groups 32,34 of holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30. As shown in FIG. 4,the holes 30 of the first group 32 of holes 30 may be aligned such thatthe holes 30 describe a first curve 112. The first curve 112 may have aradius R1 measured from a center 114 of the body 104. As shown in FIG.4, the holes 30 of the second group 34 of holes 30 may be aligned suchthat the holes 30 describe a second curve 116. The second curve 116 mayhave a radius R2 measured from the center 114 of the body 104. In someembodiments, radius R1 is substantially equal to radius R2, such thatradius R1 and radius R2 may be considered to be equal within the boundsof standard manufacturing tolerances. In some embodiments, radius R1 isnot substantially equal to radius R2 such that radius R1 and radius R2may be considered not to be equal within the bounds of standardmanufacturing tolerances.

In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 mayterminate within the body 104. In some embodiments, each hole 30 of thesecond array 28 of holes 30 may not terminate within the body 104. Insome embodiments, selected holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30may terminate within the body 104, and other holes 30 of the secondarray 28 of holes 30 may extend through the body 104. In someembodiments, those holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 thatextend through the body 104 may extend through the body 104 to theopposite side of the body 104.

In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 maybe threaded. In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array 28 ofholes 30 may not be threaded. In some embodiments, selected holes 30 ofthe second array 28 of holes 30 may be threaded, and other holes 30 ofthe second array 28 of holes 30 may not be threaded. In someembodiments, those holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 that arethreaded may be threaded along a portion of a length of each hole 30.

FIGS. 5A-E illustrate another embodiment of a fluid conduit connectorsystem. FIG. 5A provides an external view of two fluid conduitconnectors coupled together as an assembly, and FIG. 5B is a crosssection view of selected parts of the assembly. As shown in FIGS. 5A and5B, a first fluid conduit connector 118 has a first body 120. Althoughthe first body 120 may include a plurality of components, in someembodiments the first body 120 may be monolithic. The first body 120 maybe cast as a single block. The first body 120 may be machined out of asingle block. In some embodiments, the first body 120 may form at leastpart of a valve body. In such embodiments, the valve body may containone or more valve components. As shown in FIG. 5B, the first body 120has an opening 122 in one side, and a throughbore 124 may extend fromthe opening 122 to an opposite side of the first body 120. Thethroughbore 124 may be configured to convey a fluid.

A second fluid conduit connector 126 has a second body 128. Although thesecond body 128 may include a plurality of components, in someembodiments the second body 128 may be monolithic. The second body 128may be cast as a single block. The second body 128 may be machined outof a single block. In some embodiments, the second body 128 may form atleast part of a valve body. In such embodiments, the valve body maycontain one or more valve components. As shown in FIG. 5B, the secondbody 128 has an opening 130 in one side, and a throughbore 132 mayextend from the opening to an opposite side of the second body 128. Thethroughbore 132 may be configured to convey a fluid.

As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the first body 120 is positioned adjacentto the second body 128 such that the throughbore 124 of the first body120 is aligned with the throughbore 132 of the second body 128. Thefirst body 120 may have one or more recess 134 configured to accept aseal unit 136. The second body 128 may have one or more recess 138 toaccept a seal unit 136. As shown in FIG. 5B, the first and second bodies120, 128 are positioned between first and second flange plates 140, 142.One or more seal unit 136 may be positioned between the first flangeplate 140 and the first body 120, between the first body 120 and thesecond body 128, and between the second body 128 and the second flangeplate 142. Each seal unit 136 may be disposed at least partially in arecess 134 of the first body 120 and/or a recess 138 of the second body128. Thus, fluid leakage at interfaces between the first flange plate140 and the first body 120, between the first body 120 and the secondbody 128, and between the second body 128 and the second flange plate142 may be inhibited.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the first and second flange plates 140, 142 arecoupled together by connection rods 82. The connection rods 82 arepositioned through holes 30 in each of the first and second flangeplates 140, 142, and secured by fasteners 88, such as nuts. As shown inFIG. 5A, the connection rods 82 do not extend through the first body 120of the first fluid conduit connector 118. As shown in FIG. 5A, theconnection rods 82 do not extend through the second body 128 of thesecond fluid conduit connector 126. In some embodiments, at least oneconnection rod 82 may extend through the first body 120 of the firstfluid conduit connector 118. In some embodiments, at least oneconnection rod 82 may extend through the second body 128 of the secondfluid conduit connector 126. In some embodiments, at least oneconnection rod 82 may extend through the first body 120 of the firstfluid conduit connector 118 and the second body 128 of the second fluidconduit connector 126.

FIG. 5C shows an outer facing side of a flange plate 146, which mayrepresent either or both of the first flange plate 140 and the secondflange plate 142. An outer face 147 of the flange plate 146 may have anopening 148, and a throughbore 150 may extend from the opening 148 to anopposite, inner face of the flange plate 146. The throughbore 150 may beconfigured to convey a fluid.

The outer face 147 may have a sealing surface 152. The sealing surface152 may surround the opening 148. The sealing surface 152 may berecessed into the outer face 147. The sealing surface 152 may berecessed into a raised face (not shown) surrounding the opening 148. Theraised face may be sized in accordance with a raised face of a standardring type joint flange. As shown in FIG. 5B, the inner face 153 of theflange plate 146 (140, 142) may have a sealing surface 152.

Returning to FIG. 5C, the outer face 147 may have a first array 24 ofholes 26. The first array 24 of holes 26 may be positioned around theopening 148. As shown, the first array 24 has sixteen holessymmetrically positioned around the opening 148, however, the holes 26of the first array 24 of holes 26 may number, be sized, and be arrangedin a pattern that substantially matches a number, size, and pattern ofholes on a flange. For example, the number, size and pattern of holes 26of the first array 24 of holes 26 may be arranged to substantially matchthe hole number, size and pattern of holes of a flange that meets one ormore specifications of one or more of the American Petroleum Institute(API), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), or the AmericanSociety of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 mayterminate within the flange plate 146. In some embodiments, each hole 26of the first array 24 of holes 26 may not terminate within the flangeplate 146. In some embodiments, selected holes 26 of the first array 24of holes 26 may terminate within the flange plate 146, and other holes26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 may extend through the flange plate146. In some embodiments, those holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes26 that extend through the flange plate 146 may extend through to theinner face 153 of the flange plate 146.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maybe threaded. In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 ofholes 26 may not be threaded. In some embodiments, selected holes 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 may be threaded, and other holes 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 may not be threaded. In some embodiments,those holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 that are threaded maybe threaded along a portion of a length of each hole 26.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 maybe configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92. In someembodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 may beconfigured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92 whereby thecorresponding connection stud 92 may be threaded into the respectivehole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 to form a threaded connection.The threaded connection may be tightened in order to secure a component,such as a flange, to the flange plate 146.

The outer face 147 may have a second array 28 of holes 30. As shown, thesecond array 28 has eight holes although any number of holes 30 may beused. The second array 28 of holes 30 may be positioned around the firstarray 24 of holes 26. For example, the second array 28 of holes 30 mayinclude first and second groups 32, 34 of holes, and the first array 24of holes 26 may be positioned between the first and second groups 32, 34of holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30. In some embodiments,each hole 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 may terminate within theflange plate 146. In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array28 of holes 30 may not terminate within the flange plate 146. In someembodiments, selected holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 mayterminate within the flange plate 146, and other holes 30 of the secondarray 28 of holes 30 may extend through the flange plate 146. In someembodiments, those holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 thatextend through the flange plate 146 may extend through the body to theinner face 147 of the flange plate 146.

In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 maybe threaded. In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the second array 28 ofholes 30 may not be threaded. In some embodiments, selected holes 30 ofthe second array 28 of holes 30 may be threaded, and other holes 30 ofthe second array 28 of holes 30 may not be threaded. In someembodiments, those holes 30 of the second array 28 of holes 30 that arethreaded may be threaded along a portion of a length of each hole 30.

FIGS. 5D and 5E illustrate a seal unit 136 in perspective and crosssectional views, respectively. The seal unit 136 may be formed as anannular element including a first face 154 having a first opening 156,an opposite second face 158 having a second opening 160, and athroughbore 161 extending between the first and second openings 156,160. A first sealing surface 162 may surround the first opening 156. Thefirst sealing surface 162 may be recessed into the first face 154. Asecond sealing surface 164 may surround the second opening 160. Thesecond sealing surface 164 may be recessed into the second face 158. Asshown in FIG. 5B, one or more seal 80 may be disposed against the firstsealing surface 162, and one or more seal 80 may be disposed against thesecond sealing surface 164. The one or more seal 80 may be configured tobe in sealing contact with a complementary sealing surface, such as thesealing surface 152 of the inner face 153 of a flange plate 140, 142,146 or a sealing surface of the first body 120 or second body 128.

FIGS. 6A-C illustrate another embodiment of a fluid conduit connectorsystem. FIG. 6A is a side view of an assembled exemplary fluid conduitconnector system 166, and FIGS. 6B and 6C are longitudinal crosssections taken across lines 6B-6B and 6C-6C, respectively. As furtherdescribed below, the fluid conduit connector system 166 provides aversatile arrangement to quickly connect and disconnect different fluidconduits and/or valve assemblies, such as two different fracture trees,that may be located at different horizontal and/or vertical positionsrelative to each other. One or more fluid conduit connection systems 166may be connected together via one or more fluid conduits to form thefluid conduit connector system.

A first fluid conduit connector 168 may include a first body 170 havinga first side 172. A neck 174 may extend from the first side 172. Theneck 174 may have a first opening 176, and a first bore 178 may extendfrom the first opening 176 into the first body 170. The neck 174 mayhave a first sealing surface 180. The first sealing surface 180 maysurround the first opening 176. The first sealing surface 180 may berecessed into the neck 174. The first sealing surface 180 may berecessed into a raised face surrounding the first opening 176. Theraised face may be sized in accordance with a raised face of a standardring type joint flange.

The first body 170 may have second and third sides 182, 184. The secondand third sides 182, 184 may be substantially perpendicular to the firstside 172. In some embodiments, at least one of the second and thirdsides 182, 184 may not be substantially perpendicular to the first side172. In some embodiments, the second side 182 may have a neck similar tothe neck 174 of the first side 172. In some embodiments, the third side184 may have a neck similar to the neck 174 of the first side 172. Thesecond side 182 may have a second opening 186. The third side 184 mayhave a third opening 188. A second bore 190 may extend from the secondopening 186 into the first body 170. The second bore 190 may intersectwith the first bore 178. A third bore 192 may extend from the thirdopening 188 into the first body 170. The third bore 192 may intersectwith the first bore 178. The second bore 190 may intersect with thethird bore 192.

The second side 182 of the first body 170 may have a second sealingsurface 194. The second sealing surface 194 may surround the secondopening 186. The second sealing surface 194 may be recessed into thesecond side 182. The second sealing surface 194 may be recessed into araised face surrounding the second opening 186. The raised face may besized in accordance with a raised face of a standard ring type jointflange.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the second side 182 of the first body 170 may havea first array 24 of holes 26. The first array 24 of holes 26 of thesecond side 182 of the first body 170 may be positioned around thesecond opening 186. As shown, the first array 24 has sixteen holessymmetrically positioned around the opening 186, however, the holes 26of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the second side 182 of the firstbody 170 may number, be sized, and be arranged in a pattern thatsubstantially matches a number, size, and pattern of holes on a flange.For example, the number, size and pattern of holes 26 of the first array24 of holes 26 of the second side 182 of the first body 170 may bearranged to substantially match the hole number, size and pattern ofholes of a flange that meets one or more specifications of one or moreof the American Petroleum Institute (API), the American NationalStandards Institute (ANSI), or the American Society of MechanicalEngineers (ASME).

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe second side 182 of the first body 170 may terminate within the firstbody 170. In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 ofholes 26 of the second side 182 of the first body 170 may not terminatewithin the first body 170. In some embodiments, selected holes 26 of thefirst array 24 of holes 26 of the second side 182 of the first body 170may terminate within the first body 170, and other holes 26 of the firstarray 24 of holes 26 of the second side 182 of the first body 170 mayextend through the first body 170. In some embodiments, those holes 26of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the second side 182 of the firstbody 170 that extend through the first body 170 may extend through thefirst body 170 to the third side 184 of the first body 170.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe second side 182 of the first body 170 may be threaded. In someembodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of thesecond side 182 of the first body 170 may not be threaded. In someembodiments, selected holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of thesecond side 182 of the first body 170 may be threaded, and other holes26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the second side 182 of the firstbody 170 may not be threaded. In some embodiments, those holes 26 of thefirst array 24 of holes 26 of the second side 182 of the first body 170that are threaded may be threaded along a portion of a length of eachhole.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe second side 182 of the first body 170 may be configured to receive acorresponding connection stud 92. In some embodiments, each hole 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 of the second side 182 of the first body170 may be configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92whereby the corresponding connection stud 92 may be threaded into therespective hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the second side182 of the first body 170 to form a threaded connection. The threadedconnection may be tightened in order to secure a component, such as aflange, to the first body 170.

Additionally, or alternatively, the second side 182 of the first body170 may have a second array of holes, such as the second array 28 ofholes 30 of FIGS. 1A-B, or the second array 28 of holes 30 of FIG. 4. Insome embodiments, the second array of holes may extend through the firstbody 170 to the third side 184.

The third side 184 of the first body 170 may have a third sealingsurface 196. The third sealing surface 196 may surround the thirdopening 188. The third sealing surface 196 may be recessed into thethird side 184 of the first body 170. The third sealing surface 196 maybe recessed into a raised face surrounding the third opening 188. Theraised face may be sized in accordance with a raised face of a standardring type joint flange.

The third side 184 of the first body 170 may have a first array 24 ofholes 26. The first array 24 of holes 26 of the third side 184 of thefirst body 170 may be positioned around the third opening 188. As shown,the first array 24 has sixteen holes symmetrically positioned around thethird opening 188, however, the holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes26 of the third side 184 of the first body 170 may number, be sized, andbe arranged in a pattern that substantially matches a number, size, andpattern of holes on a flange. For example, the number, size and patternof holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the third side 184 ofthe first body 170 may be arranged to substantially match the holenumber, size and pattern of holes of a flange that meets one or morespecifications of one or more of the American Petroleum Institute (API),the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), or the AmericanSociety of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe third side 184 of the first body 170 may terminate within the firstbody 170. In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 ofholes 26 of the third side 184 of the first body 170 may not terminatewithin the first body 170. In some embodiments, selected holes 26 of thefirst array 24 of holes 26 of the third side 184 of the first body 170may terminate within the first body 170, and other holes 26 of the firstarray 24 of holes 26 of the third side 184 of the first body 170 mayextend through the first body 170. In some embodiments, those holes 26of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the third side 184 of the firstbody 170 that extend through the first body 170 may extend through thefirst body 170 to the second side 182 of the first body 170.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe third side 184 of the first body 170 may be threaded. In someembodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the thirdside 184 of the first body 170 may not be threaded. In some embodiments,selected holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the third side184 of the first body 170 may be threaded, and other holes 26 of thefirst array 24 of holes 26 of the third side 184 of the first body 170may not be threaded. In some embodiments, those holes 26 of the firstarray 24 of holes 26 of the third side 184 of the first body 170 thatare threaded may be threaded along a portion of a length of each hole26.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe third side 184 of the first body 170 may be configured to receive acorresponding connection stud 92. In some embodiments, each hole 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 of the third side 184 of the first body170 may be configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92whereby the corresponding connection stud 92 may be threaded into therespective hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the third side184 of the first body 170 to form a threaded connection. The threadedconnection may be tightened in order to secure a component, such as aflange, to the first body 170.

Additionally, or alternatively, the third side 184 of the first body 170may have a second array of holes, such as the second array 28 of holes30 of FIGS. 1A-B, or the second array 28 of holes 30 of FIG. 4. In someembodiments, the second array of holes may extend through the first body170 to the second side 182 of the first body 170.

As shown in FIGS. 6A-C, the fluid conduit connector system 166 may havea second fluid conduit connector 198. The second fluid conduit connector198 may have a second body 200. The second body 200 may be configuredsimilarly to the first body 170 of the first fluid conduit connector168. Thus, the second body 200 may have a first side 202 with a firstopening 204, a first sealing surface 208 surrounding the first opening204, and a first bore 206. In some embodiments, a neck may extend fromthe first side 202, and the neck may have the first opening 204 and thefirst sealing surface 208. In embodiments in which the first side 202 ofthe second body 200 has a neck, the first sealing surface 208 may berecessed into the neck. In embodiments in which the first side 202 ofthe second body 200 does not have a neck, the first sealing surface 208may be recessed into the first side 202 of the second body 200. In someembodiments, the first sealing surface 208 may be recessed into a raisedface surrounding the first opening 204. The raised face may be sized inaccordance with a raised face of a standard ring type joint flange.

In embodiments in which the first side 202 of the second body 200 doesnot have a neck, the first side 202 of the second body 200 may have afirst array 24 of holes 26. The first array 24 of holes 26 of the firstside 202 of the second body 200 may be positioned around the firstopening 204. The holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the firstside 202 of the second body 200 may number, be sized, and be arranged ina pattern that substantially matches a number, size, and pattern ofholes on a flange. For example, the number, size and pattern of holes 26of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the first side 202 of the secondbody 200 may be arranged to substantially match the hole number, sizeand pattern of holes of a flange that meets one or more specificationsof one or more of the American Petroleum Institute (API), the AmericanNational Standards Institute (ANSI), or the American Society ofMechanical Engineers (ASME).

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe first side 202 of the second body 200 may terminate within thesecond body 200. In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24of holes 26 of the first side 202 of the second body 200 may notterminate within the second body 200. In some embodiments, selectedholes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the first side 202 of thesecond body 200 may terminate within the second body 200, and otherholes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the first side 202 of thesecond body 200 may extend through the second body 200. In someembodiments, those holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of thefirst side 202 of the second body 200 that extend through the secondbody 200 may extend through the second body 200 to an opposite side ofthe second body 200.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe first side 202 of the second body 200 may be threaded. In someembodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the firstside 202 of the second body 200 may not be threaded. In someembodiments, selected holes 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of thefirst side 202 of the second body 200 may be threaded, and other holes26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the first side 202 of the secondbody 200 may not be threaded. In some embodiments, those holes 26 of thefirst array 24 of holes 26 of the first side 202 of the second body 200that are threaded may be threaded along a portion of a length of eachhole 26.

In some embodiments, each hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 ofthe first side 202 of the second body 200 may be configured to receive acorresponding connection stud 92. In some embodiments, each hole 26 ofthe first array 24 of holes 26 of the first side 202 of the second body200 may be configured to receive a corresponding connection stud 92whereby the corresponding connection stud 92 may be threaded into therespective hole 26 of the first array 24 of holes 26 of the first side202 of the second body 200 to form a threaded connection. The threadedconnection may be tightened in order to secure a component, such as aflange, to the second body 200.

Additionally, or alternatively, the first side 202 of the second body200 may have a second array of holes, such as the second array 28 ofholes 30 of FIGS. 1A-B, or the second array 28 of holes 30 of FIG. 4. Insome embodiments, the second array of holes may extend through thesecond body 200 to an opposite side of the second body 200.

The second body 200 may have a second side 210 with a second opening212, a second sealing surface 214 surrounding the second opening 212,and a second bore 216. In some embodiments, a neck may extend from thesecond side 210, and the neck may have the second opening 212 and thesecond sealing surface 214. In embodiments in which the second side 210of the second body 200 has a neck, the second sealing surface 214 may berecessed into the neck. In embodiments in which the second side 210 ofthe second body 200 does not have a neck, the second sealing surface 214may be recessed into the second side 210 of the second body 200. In someembodiments, the second sealing surface 214 may be recessed into araised face surrounding the second opening 212. The raised face may besized in accordance with a raised face of a standard ring type jointflange.

The second body 200 may have a third side 218 with a third opening 220,a third sealing surface 222 surrounding the third opening 220, and athird bore 224. In some embodiments, a neck may extend from the thirdside 218, and the neck may have the third opening 220 and the thirdsealing surface 222. In embodiments in which the third side 218 of thesecond body 200 has a neck, the third sealing surface 222 may berecessed into the neck. In embodiments in which the third side 218 ofthe second body 200 does not have a neck, the third sealing surface 222may be recessed into the third side 218 of the second body 200. In someembodiments, the third sealing surface 222 may be recessed into a raisedface surrounding the third opening 220. The raised face may be sized inaccordance with a raised face of a standard ring type joint flange.

In some embodiments, the second body 200 may have a third side 218 thatomits the third opening 220. In some embodiments, the second body 200may omit the third bore 224.

The second bore 216 of the second body 200 may intersect with the firstbore 206 of the second body 200. If present, the third bore 224 of thesecond body 200 may intersect with the second bore 216 of the secondbody 200. If present, the third bore 224 of the second body 200 mayintersect with the first bore 206 of the second body 200. As shown inFIG. 6B, the second bore 216 of the second body 200 may be aligned withand intersect the third bore 224 of the second body 200 such that thereexists a throughbore from the second opening 212 to the third opening220. As shown in FIG. 6B, the first bore 206 of the second body 200 mayintersect with the throughbore.

As shown in FIGS. 6A-C, The first body 170 of the first fluid conduitconnector 168 may be coupled to the second body 200 of the second fluidconduit connector such that the neck 174 of the first side 172 of thefirst body 170 may be disposed adjacent to the second side 210 of thesecond body 200. The first bore 178 of the first body 170 may be alignedwith the second bore 216 of the second body 200. A seal 80 may bedisposed against the first sealing surface 208 of the first side 172 ofthe first body 170 and against the second sealing surface 214 of thesecond side 210 of the second body 200.

A tension flange 226 may be disposed around the neck 174 of the firstside 172 of the first body 170. The tension flange 226 may be threadedlycoupled to the neck 174. Additionally, or alternatively, the tensionflange 226 may be coupled to the neck 174 by one or more fastenings,such as screws, latches, clasps, and the like. In some embodiments, asshown in FIG. 6B, the tension flange 226 may be coupled to the neck 174such that an end of the neck 174 protrudes through the tension flange226.

A connection flange 228 may be disposed on the third side 218 of thesecond body 200. The connection flange 228 may be a blind flange. A seal80 may be disposed against the third sealing surface 222 of the thirdside 218 of the second body 200 and against a sealing surface 230 of theconnection flange 228. A piston flange 232 may be disposed on theconnection flange 228. The piston flange 232 may include a recess 234.The connection flange 228 may have a piston head 236 disposed in therecess 234. A chamber 238 may be defined at least in part by theconnection flange 228 and the piston flange 232. The chamber 238 may bedefined at least in part by the recess 234 and the piston head 236. Aseal 240 may inhibit passage of fluid between the chamber 238 and anexterior of the piston flange 232. The piston flange 232 may have a port242 that fluidically couples the chamber 238 with an exterior of thepiston flange 232. The port 242 may include a pressure fitting to enablea source of hydraulic pressure to be coupled to the port 242.

In some embodiments, the third side 218 of the second body 200 may havethe piston head 236. Thus, in some embodiments, the connection flange228 may be omitted, and the chamber 238 may be defined as least in partby the third side 218 of the second body 200 and the piston flange 232.

Connection rods 82 may be disposed through corresponding holes 30 in thepiston flange 232, through corresponding holes 30 in the connectionflange 228 (if present), and through corresponding holes 30 in thesecond body 200. The connection rods 82 may be coupled to the tensionflange 226. The connection rods 82 may be threadedly coupled to thetension flange 226. In some embodiments, the connection rods 82 may becoupled to the tension flange 226 by corresponding fasteners, such asnuts. In some embodiments, the tension flange 226, connection flange228, and piston flange 232 may be sized such that the connection rods 82are not disposed in corresponding holes 30 in the second body 200.

Each connection rod 82 may be coupled to the second body 200 via theconnection flange 228 by a corresponding first fastener 244, such as anut having threads that cooperate with corresponding threads on acorresponding connection rod 82. In embodiments in which the connectionflange 238 is omitted, each connection rod may be coupled directly tothe second body 200 by the corresponding first fastener 244. Eachconnection rod 82 may be coupled to the piston flange 232 by acorresponding second fastener 246, such as a nut having threads thatcooperate with corresponding threads on a corresponding connection rod82.

The fluid conduit connector system 166 provides a versatile connectorarrangement in that the first opening 204 of the first side 202 of thesecond body 200 may be positioned at any one of a variety of rotationalorientations with respect to the second opening 186 of the first body170. In some embodiments, the rotational position of the first opening204 of the first side 202 of the second body 200 with respect to thesecond opening 186 of the first body 170 may be achieved at anyorientation.

In use, the above-mentioned components may be coupled together asdescribed. The connection rods 82 may be secured to the tension flange226. The connection rods 82 may be secured to the second body 200 by thefirst fasteners 244. In embodiments in which the connection flange 228is omitted, the connection rods 82 may be secured to the second body 200directly by the first fasteners 244. In embodiments in which theconnection flange 228 is present, the connection rods 82 may be securedto the second body 200 via the connection flange 228 by the firstfasteners 244 bearing against the connection flange 228. The connectionrods 82 may be secured to the piston flange 232 by the second fasteners246.

A source of hydraulic pressure may be coupled to the port 242 in thepiston flange 232, such as via a pressure fitting. The source ofhydraulic pressure may apply a pressure through the port 242 and intothe chamber 238. In embodiments in which the connection flange 228 ispresent, the chamber 238 may be defined by the piston flange 232 and theconnection flange 228, and pressure within the chamber 238 may urge thepiston flange 232 and the connection flange 228 to separate, therebyenlarging the chamber 238. In embodiments in which the connection flange228 is absent, the chamber 238 may be defined by the piston flange 232and the third side 218 of the second body 200, and pressure within thechamber 238 may urge the piston flange 232 and the second body 200 toseparate, thereby enlarging the chamber 238.

In embodiments in which the connection flange 228 is present, the pistonflange 232 and the connection flange 228 may not separate entirely. Suchseparation may place the connection flange 228 and the second body 200under a compressive load. The piston flange 232 may act on the secondfasteners 246, thereby placing the connection rods 82 under a tensileload. The tensile load in the connection rods 82 may be transferred tothe neck 174 extending from the first side 172 of the first body 170 viathe tension flange 226.

In embodiments in which the connection flange 228 is absent, the pistonflange 232 and the second body 200 may not separate entirely. Suchseparation may place the second body 200 under a compressive load. Thepiston flange 232 may act on the second fasteners 246, thereby placingthe connection rods 82 under a tensile load. The tensile load in theconnection rods 82 may be transferred to the neck 174 extending from thefirst side 172 of the first body 170 via the tension flange 226.

In embodiments in which the connection flange 228 is present, as aresult of the tensile load in the connection rods 82 and the compressiveload in the connection flange 228 and in the second body 200, the firstfasteners 244 may become loosened from securement to the connectionflange 228. Hence, the first fasteners 244 may be secured to theconnection flange 228 by (for example) tightening the first fasteners244, such as by via a threaded cooperation between each connection rod82 and a corresponding first fastener 244. Thereafter, the pressurewithin the chamber may be relieved, and the source of hydraulic pressuremay be disconnected from the port 242. Disassembly of the fluid conduitconnector system 166 may be achieved by reversing the steps that areexecuted during assembly.

In embodiments in which the connection flange 228 is absent, as a resultof the tensile load in the connection rods 82 and the compressive loadin the second body 200, the first fasteners 244 may become loosened fromsecurement to the second body 200. Hence, the first fasteners 244 may besecured to the second body 200 by (for example) tightening the firstfasteners 244, such as by via a threaded cooperation between eachconnection rod 82 and a corresponding first fastener 244. Thereafter,the pressure within the chamber may be relieved, and the source ofhydraulic pressure may be disconnected from the port 242. Disassembly ofthe fluid conduit connector system 166 may be achieved by reversing thesteps that are executed during assembly.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a fluid conduit system that may incorporateone or more aspects of one or more embodiments of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 7A is a side view of a valve assembly 248. The valveassembly 248 may be used during well servicing operations for routingfluids into and out of a wellbore. For example, the valve assembly 248may be used for directing treatment fluids into a wellbore, and thenrouting the production of fluids out of the wellbore afterwards. FIG. 7Bis a cross section view of the valve assembly 248 of FIG. 7A.

With reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the valve assembly 248 may have amanifold header 250. The manifold header 250 may include featuresconfigured to facilitate sealing with, and connection to, othercomponents, such as the features shown and described for any body of afluid conduit connector of the present disclosure. The manifold header250 may have a main bore 252. The main bore 252 may extend through themanifold header 250. The manifold header 250 may have a branch bore 254that intersects the main bore 252.

The manifold header 250 may be coupled to a first manifold valve 256.The first manifold valve 256 may include a body 258, such as a body of afluid conduit connector of the present disclosure. The body 258 may havea throughbore 260 that is fluidically coupled to the branch bore 254 ofthe manifold header 250. The throughbore 260 may be substantiallyaligned with the branch bore 254 of the manifold header 250. In someembodiments, the first manifold valve 256 may be coupled to a secondmanifold valve 262. The second manifold valve 262 may include a body264, such as a body of a fluid conduit connector of the presentdisclosure. The body 264 may have a throughbore 266 that is fluidicallycoupled to the throughbore 260 of the first manifold valve body 258. Thethroughbore 266 of the second manifold valve body 264 may besubstantially aligned with the throughbore 260 of the first manifoldvalve body 258.

The second manifold valve 262 may be coupled to a fracture header 268.The fracture header 268 may have a first body 270, such as a body of afluid conduit connector of the present disclosure. The first body 270may have a lateral bore 272 that is fluidically coupled to thethroughbore 266 of the second manifold valve body 264. The lateral bore272 may be substantially aligned with the throughbore 266 of the secondmanifold valve body 264. In some embodiments, the lateral bore 272 mayextend completely through the first body 270 of the fracture header 268.The first body 270 of the fracture header 268 may have a longitudinalbore 274 that intersects the lateral bore 272. In some embodiments, thelongitudinal bore 274 may extend completely through the first body 270of the fracture header 268.

The manifold header 250, first manifold valve 256, second manifold valve262 (if present), and the fracture header 268 may be coupled togetherwith a plurality of connection rods 82. In some embodiments, theconnection rods 82 may extend through the manifold header 250, throughthe first manifold valve body 258, through the second manifold valvebody 264 (if present), and into the fracture header 268. The connectionrods 82 may be threadedly connected to the first body 270 of thefracture header 268. Each connection rod 82 may have a correspondingfastener 88, such as a nut, securing each connection rod 82 to themanifold header 250.

In embodiments in which the lateral bore 272 of the first body 270 ofthe fracture header 268 extends through the first body 270, a blindflange 276 may be attached to the first body 270 on a side opposite tothe side against which the second manifold valve 262 (if present), orthe first manifold valve 256 (if the second manifold valve 262 is notpresent) is coupled to the first body 270. The blind flange 276 maysealingly obscure the lateral bore 272 of the first body 270 of thefracture header 268.

The fracture header 268 may have a second body 278, such as a body of afluid conduit connector of the present disclosure. The second body 278may have a longitudinal bore 282 that is fluidically coupled to thelongitudinal bore 274 of the first body 270 of the fracture header 268.The longitudinal bore 282 of the second body 278 of the fracture header268 may be substantially aligned with the longitudinal bore 274 of thefirst body 270 of the fracture header 268. In some embodiments, thelongitudinal bore 282 may extend through the second body 278. The secondbody 278 may have a lateral bore 280 that intersects with thelongitudinal bore 282. In some embodiments, the lateral bore 280 mayextend through the second body 278. The first body 270 of the fractureheader 268 and the second body 278 of the fracture header 268 may becoupled together with a plurality of connection rods 82. In someembodiments, the connection rods 82 may extend through the first body270 of the fracture header 268 and through the second body 278 of thefracture header 268. Each connection rod 82 may have a correspondingfastener 88, such as a nut, securing each connection rod 82 to the firstbody 270 of the fracture header 268. Each connection rod 82 may have acorresponding fastener 88, such as a nut, securing each connection rod82 to the second body 278 of the fracture header 268.

In some embodiments, instead of having the first body 270 and the secondbody 278, the fracture header 268 may have a unitary body that includesthe lateral and longitudinal bores 272, 274 of the first body 270 andthe lateral and longitudinal bores 280, 282 of the second body 278. Insuch embodiments, the plurality of connection rods 82 that connect thefirst body 270 to the second body 278 of the fracture header 268 may beomitted.

In embodiments in which the longitudinal bore 274 of the first body 270of the fracture header 268 extends through the first body 270, a blindflange 276 may be attached to the first body 270 of the fracture header268 on a side opposite to the side against which the second body 278 ofthe fracture header 268 is coupled to the first body 270 of the fractureheader 268. The blind flange may sealingly obscure the longitudinal bore274 of the first body 270 of the fracture header 268. In embodiments inwhich the longitudinal bore 282 of the second body 278 of the fractureheader 268 extends through the second body 278, a blind flange 276 maybe attached to the second body 278 of the fracture header 268 on a sideopposite to the side against which the first body 270 of the fractureheader 268 is coupled to the second body 278 of the fracture header 268.The blind flange 276 may sealingly obscure the longitudinal bore 282 ofthe second body 278 of the fracture header 268.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, a flow spool 284 may be coupled tothe fracture header 268. The flow spool 284 may include a flow spoolbody 286, such as a body of a fluid conduit connector of the presentdisclosure. The flow spool body 286 may have a throughbore 288 that isfluidically coupled to the lateral bore 280 of the second body 278 ofthe fracture header 268. The throughbore 288 of the flow spool body 286may be substantially aligned with the lateral bore 280 of the secondbody 278 of the fracture header 268. The flow spool body 286 may have alateral bore 290 that intersects with the throughbore 288. One or moreflow control valves 292 may be coupled to the flow spool body 286 inorder to control fluid flow through, and/or fluid pressure within, thelateral bore 290 of the flow spool 284. In some embodiments, the one ormore flow control valves 292 may operate as shut-off valves. Each flowcontrol valve 292 may include a flow control valve body 294, such as abody of a fluid conduit connector of the present disclosure. Each flowcontrol valve body 294 may be coupled to the flow spool body 286 usingone or more connection components of a fluid connector system of thepresent disclosure. Each flow control valve body 294 may include a flowbore 296 that is fluidically coupled to the lateral bore 290 of the flowspool body 286. The flow bore 296 of each flow control valve body 294may be substantially aligned with the lateral bore 290 of the flow spoolbody 286.

Each flow control valve body 294 may have an array 298 of holes 300 on afirst side 301. The array 298 of holes 300 may surround an opening 297to the flow bore 296, and each hole 300 may be configured to accept aconnection stud 92. Each flow control valve body 294 may have a sealingsurface 302 surrounding the opening 297. Each sealing surface 297 may berecessed into a raised face on the first side 301. Each sealing surface297, raised face, and array 298 of holes 300 may be sized and configuredto match a flange that meets one or more specifications of one or moreof the American Petroleum Institute (API), the American NationalStandards Institute (ANSI), or the American Society of MechanicalEngineers (ASME). A fluid flow conduit may have a flange configured tomate with the sealing surface 297, raised face, and array 298 of holes300 on the first side 301 of each flow control valve body 294.

As illustrated in FIG. 7A, each flow control valve body 294 may besecured to the flow spool body 286 by connection rods 82 that may bethreaded into the flow spool body 286 and secured by suitable fasteners88, such as nuts.

A first fracture valve 304 may be coupled to the flow spool 284. Thefirst fracture valve 304 may include a body 306, such as a body of afluid conduit connector of the present disclosure. The body 306 may havea throughbore 308 that is fluidically coupled to the throughbore 288 ofthe flow spool body 286. The throughbore 308 of the first fracture valvebody may be substantially aligned with the throughbore 288 of the flowspool body 286. In some embodiments, the first fracture valve 304 may becoupled to a second fracture valve 310. The second fracture valve 310may include a body 312, such as a body of a fluid conduit connector ofthe present disclosure. The body 312 may have a throughbore 314 that isfluidically coupled to the throughbore 308 of the first fracture valvebody 306. The throughbore 314 of the second fracture valve body 312 maybe substantially aligned with the throughbore 308 of the first fracturevalve body 306.

The fracture header 268, flow spool 284, first fracture valve 304, andsecond fracture valve 310 (if present) may be coupled together with aplurality of connection rods 82. In some embodiments, the connectionrods 82 may extend through the second fracture valve body 312 (ifpresent), through the first fracture valve body 306, through the flowspool body 286, and into the fracture header 268. The connection rods 82may be threadedly connected to the second body 278 of the fractureheader 268. Each connection rod 82 may have a corresponding fastener 88,such as a nut, securing each connection rod 82 to the second facturevalve body 312 (if present), or to the first facture valve body 306 ifthe second fracture valve 310 is omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the lowermost valve of the first fracturevalve 304 and the second fracture valve 310 may be connected to anadaptor flange 316. The adaptor flange 316 may facilitate connection toa Christmas tree of a well, to a blowout preventer, or to a component ofa wellhead.

In some embodiments, a swab valve 318 may be coupled to the fractureheader 268. The swab valve 318 may include a body 320, such as a body ofa fluid conduit connector of the present disclosure. The body 320 mayhave a throughbore 322 that is fluidically coupled to the lateral bore280 of the second body 278 of the fracture header 268. The throughbore322 of the swab valve body may be substantially aligned with the lateralbore 280 of the second body 278 of the fracture header 268. The swabvalve 318 may be coupled to the fracture header 268 with a plurality ofconnection rods 82. In some embodiments, the connection rods 82 mayextend through the swab valve body 320 and into the fracture header 268.The connection rods 82 may be threadedly connected to the second body278 of the fracture header 268. Each connection rod 82 may have acorresponding fastener 88, such as a nut, securing each connection rod82 to the swab valve body 322.

In some embodiments, additional conduits and/or connectors may becoupled to the swab valve 318. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, a blindflange 276 may be coupled to the swab valve 318. The blind flange 276may sealingly obscure the throughbore 322 of the swab valve body 320.

A wellbore treatment operation may be conducted using the valve assembly248 of FIGS. 7A and 7B. The wellbore treatment operation may involvepumping a treatment fluid into a well to which the valve assembly 248 ofFIGS. 7A and 7B is coupled. The treatment fluid may include an acid. Thetreatment fluid may include a fracturing fluid. The treatment fluid mayinclude an acid fracturing fluid.

The wellbore treatment operation may include coupling the valve assembly248 of FIGS. 7A and 7B to a well, a source of treatment fluid, and oneor more fluid flow conduit. The coupling to the well may be via theadaptor flange 316. The coupling to the source of treatment fluid may bevia a trunk line connected to the manifold header 250. The coupling tothe one or more fluid flow conduit may be via the one or more flowcontrol valves 292. The wellbore treatment operation may include closingthe swab valve 318, and closing the one or more flow control valves 292.The wellbore treatment operation may further include opening the firstand second manifold valves 256, 262, and opening the first and secondfracture valves 304, 310. Treatment fluid may than be pumped through themanifold header 250, through the first and second manifold valves 256,262, through the fracture header 268, through the flow spool 284 (butnot through the flow control valves 292), through the first and secondfracture valves 304, 310, through the adaptor flange 316, and into thewell.

The wellbore treatment operation may further include ceasing the pumpingof the treatment fluid, and closing the first and second manifold valves256, 262. In some embodiments, the wellbore treatment operation mayfurther include closing a valve of a Christmas tree of the well and/orclosing the first and second fracture valves 304, 310. In someembodiments, the closing of the valve of the Christmas tree of the welland/or closing the first and second fracture valves 304, 310 may beomitted. The wellbore treatment operation may further include openingthe flow control valves 292. In embodiments in which the valve of theChristmas tree of the well and/or the first and second fracture valves304, 310 had been closed, the wellbore treatment operation may includeopening the valve of the Christmas tree of the well and/or the first andsecond fracture valves 304, 310. The wellbore treatment operation mayfurther include flowing fluids out of the well, through the first andsecond fracture valves 304, 310, into the flow spool 284, and out of theflow spool 284 through the flow control valves 292.

FIG. 8 shows an alternative embodiment to the valve assembly of FIGS. 7Aand 7B. The valve assembly 248 may include a third fracture valve 324located between the fracture header 268 and the flow spool 284. Thethird fracture valve 324 may include a body 326, such as a body of afluid conduit connector of the present disclosure. The body 326 may havea throughbore (not shown) that is fluidically coupled to the throughbore288 of the flow spool 284 and the lateral bore 280 of the second body278 of the fracture header 268. The throughbore of the third fracturevalve 324 may be substantially aligned with the throughbore 288 of theflow spool 284 and the lateral bore 280 of the second body 278 of thefracture header 268.

The third fracture valve 324 may be coupled to the fracture header 268via a flange 330. The third fracture valve 324, flow spool 284, firstfracture valve 304, and second fracture valve 310 (if present) may becoupled together with a plurality of connection rods 82. In someembodiments, the connection rods 82 may extend through the secondfracture valve body 312 (if present), through the first fracture valvebody 306, through the flow spool body 286, and into the third fracturevalve body 326. The connection rods 82 may be threadedly connected tothe third fracture valve body 326. Each connection rod 82 may have acorresponding fastener 88, such as a nut, securing each connection rod82 to the second facture valve body 312 (if present), or to the firstfacture valve body 306 if the second fracture valve 310 is omitted.

A wellbore treatment operation may be conducted using the valve assembly248 of FIG. 8. The wellbore treatment operation may involve pumping atreatment fluid into a well to which the valve assembly 248 of FIG. 8 iscoupled. The treatment fluid may include an acid. The treatment fluidmay include a fracturing fluid. The treatment fluid may include an acidfracturing fluid.

A wellbore treatment operation using the valve assembly 248 of FIG. 8may proceed with operations that are substantially the same as thewellbore treatment operation described above with respect to FIGS. 7A-B.The wellbore treatment operation may further include opening the thirdfracture valve 324 prior to pumping the treatment fluid into the well.The wellbore treatment operation may further include closing the thirdfracture valve 324 after ceasing the pumping of treatment fluid, andbefore flowing fluids out of the well. The wellbore treatment operationmay further include maintaining the third fracture valve 324 in a closedposition while flowing fluids out of the well and through the flowcontrol valves 292. The wellbore treatment operation may further includedisconnecting the fracture header 268 from the third fracture valve 324before and/or during the flowing of fluids out of the well. Thus, thefracture header 268, first and second manifold valves 256, 262, andmanifold header 250 may be at least partially disassembled before and/orduring the flowing of fluids out of the well.

FIG. 9 shows an arrangement of multiple valve assemblies. Each valveassembly 248 may be coupled to a respective well. Although illustratedfor coupling to two wells, the arrangement of multiple valve assembliesmay be configured with additional valve assemblies 248, such that eachadditional vale assembly 248 may be coupled to a respective additionalwell. As shown in FIG. 9, each valve assembly 248 omits the flow spool284 and omits the third fracture valve 324. In some embodiments, one ormore valve assembly 248 may be configured as per the valve assembly 248of FIGS. 7A and 7B. In some embodiments, one or more valve assembly 248may be configured as per the valve assembly 248 of FIG. 8.

Each valve assembly 248 may be coupled to a trunk line 332. The trunkline 332 may have a trunk line throughbore that is fluidically coupledto the main bore 252 of the manifold header 250 of each valve assembly248. The trunk line throughbore may be substantially aligned with themain bore 252 of the manifold header 250 of each valve assembly 248. Thetrunk line 332 may be coupled to each manifold header 250 via a flange334. The manifold header 250 of each valve assembly 248 may be coupledto, and between, sections of the trunk line 332, such that the manifoldheaders 250 are interspersed along the trunk line 332. The trunk line332 may be coupled to the source of treatment fluid. In someembodiments, one or more of the fluid connector systems 166 (as shown inFIGS. 6A-C) and one or more trunk lines 332 may be used to facilitateconnection between the manifold header 250 of each valve assembly 248when the valve assemblies 248 are horizontally and/or vertically offsetrelative to each other and/or relative to other equipment, such as thesource of treatment fluid.

A wellbore treatment operation may be conducted using the arrangement ofmultiple valve assemblies of FIG. 9. The treatment fluid may include anacid. The treatment fluid may include a fracturing fluid. The treatmentfluid may include an acid fracturing fluid.

A wellbore treatment operation using the arrangement of multiple valveassemblies of FIG. 9 may proceed with operations that are substantiallythe same as the wellbore treatment operations described above withrespect to FIGS. 7A-B and/or FIG. 8. In some embodiments, a wellboretreatment operation using the arrangement of multiple valve assembliesof FIG. 9 may proceed with at least some of the steps of the wellboretreatment operations described above with respect to FIGS. 7A-B and/orFIG. 8.

In some embodiments, a wellbore treatment operation using thearrangement of multiple valve assemblies 248 of FIG. 9 may furtherinclude connecting each valve assembly 248 to a respective well. Thewellbore treatment operation may further include connecting eachmanifold header 250 of each valve assembly 248 to the trunk line 332.The wellbore treatment operation may further include pumping treatmentfluid through the trunk line 332, sequentially through each valveassembly 248, and into each well. The wellbore treatment operation mayinclude sequentially pumping treatment fluid into each well whereby thetreatment fluid is pumped into each well in turn, one well at a time.The wellbore treatment operation may further include closing the firstand second manifold valves 256, 262 of the valve assemblies 248associated with wells that are not about to receive the treatment fluid,and opening the first and second manifold valves 256, 262 of the valveassembly 248 associated with the well that is about to receive thetreatment fluid. The wellbore treatment operation may further includeclosing the first and second manifold valves 256, 262 of the valveassembly 248 associated with the well that received the treatment fluid,and opening the first and second manifold valves 256, 262 of the valveassembly 248 associated with another well that is about to receive thetreatment fluid. The wellbore treatment operation may thus include usingthe sequential closing and opening of first and second manifold valves256, 262 of each valve assembly 248 to direct the treatment fluid intoeach well sequentially.

The fluid conduit connector systems described herein provide severaladvantages over conventional systems. Conduits incorporating connectorsystems of the present disclosure may be routed such that changes inconduit orientation may be achieved with robust compact connectors. Suchcompactness provides for reduced weight, reduced footprint, and reducedheight compared to conventional systems. The fluid conduit connectorsystems of the present disclosure may be more quickly and easilyassembled and disassembled than conventional systems by virtue ofreducing the number of flanged connections and the number ofbolts/fasteners required for each connection. The fluid conduitconnector systems of the present disclosure also provide for versatile,modular arrangements of components, as exemplified by the differentconfigurations illustrated for the valve assemblies 248 of FIGS. 7A-9.

ADDITIONAL EMBODIMENTS

Embodiment 1: A fluid conduit connector system, comprising: a firstfluid conduit connector including a first body having a first opening ata first side, a second opening at a second side, and a throughboreextending from the first opening to the second opening; a second fluidconduit connector including a second body having a first opening at afirst side, a second opening at a second side, and a throughboreextending from the first opening to the second opening; a first flangeincluding: a first opening at a first side and a second opening at asecond side, a throughbore extending from the first opening to thesecond opening, a first array of holes in the first side positionedaround the first opening, each hole of the first array of holesterminating within the first flange, and a second array of holes in thefirst side positioned between the first array of holes and an edge ofthe first flange; a second flange including: a first opening at a firstside and a second opening at a second side, a throughbore extending fromthe first opening to the second opening, a first array of holes in thefirst side positioned around the first opening, each hole of the firstarray of holes terminating within the second flange, and a second arrayof holes in the first side positioned between the first array of holesand an edge of the second flange; and a plurality of connection rods;wherein upon assembly: the throughbores of the first flange, the secondflange, the first body and the second body are aligned, the second sideof the first flange is adjacent to the first side of the first body, thesecond side of the first body is adjacent to the first side of thesecond body, the second side of the second body is adjacent to thesecond side of the second flange, and each connection rod extendsthrough a corresponding hole of the second array of holes of the firstflange and through a corresponding hole of the second array of holes ofthe second flange.

Embodiment 2: The fluid conduit connector system of Embodiment 1,further comprising a seal carrier having: a first opening at a firstside and a second opening at a second side, a throughbore extending fromthe first opening to the second opening, a first seal gland in the firstside around the first opening, and a second seal gland in the secondside around the second opening.

Embodiment 3: The fluid conduit connector system of Embodiment 2,wherein upon assembly, the seal carrier is disposed between the firstbody and the second body with the throughbore of the seal carrieraligned with the throughbore of the first body.

Embodiment 4: The fluid conduit connector system of Embodiment 3,wherein the second side of the first body includes a recess configuredto receive the seal carrier.

Embodiment 5: The fluid conduit connector system of Embodiment 4,wherein the first side of the second body includes a recess configuredto receive the seal carrier, and further wherein upon assembly the sealcarrier is disposed in the recess in the second side of the first bodyand in the recess in the first side of the second body.

Embodiment 6: The fluid conduit connector system of Embodiment 2,wherein upon assembly the seal carrier is disposed between the firstflange and the first body with the through bore of the seal carrieraligned with the throughbore of the first body.

Embodiment 7: The fluid conduit connector system of Embodiment 6,wherein the first side of the first body includes a recess configured toreceive the seal carrier, and further wherein upon assembly, the sealcarrier is disposed in the recess in the first side of the first body.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the precedingembodiments are exemplary and not limiting. It is intended that allmodifications, permutations, enhancements, equivalents, and improvementsthereto that are apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading ofthe specification and a study of the drawings are included within thescope of the disclosure. It is therefore intended that the followingappended claims may include all such modifications, permutations,enhancements, equivalents, and improvements. The present disclosure alsocontemplates that one or more aspects of the embodiments describedherein may be substituted in for one or more of the other aspectsdescribed. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims thatfollow.

1. A fluid conduit connector, comprising: a monolithic body having afirst opening at a first side and a second opening at a second side; athroughbore extending from the first opening to the second opening; afirst array of holes in the first side positioned around the firstopening, each hole of the first array of holes terminating within thebody; and a second array of holes in the first side positioned aroundthe first array of holes, each hole of the second array of holesextending through the body to the second side.
 2. The fluid conduitconnector of claim 1, wherein each hole of the second array of holes isnot threaded.
 3. The fluid conduit connector of claim 1, wherein eachhole of the first array of holes is threaded.
 4. The fluid conduitconnector of claim 1, further comprising a third array of holes in thesecond side positioned around the second opening, each hole of the thirdarray of holes terminating within the body.
 5. The fluid conduitconnector of claim 4, wherein the third array of holes is positionedbetween the second opening and the second array of holes.
 6. The fluidconduit connector of claim 3, wherein each hole of the first array ofholes is configured to receive a corresponding connection stud, theconnection stud having a longitudinal axis and a first nominal crosssectional area measured transverse to the longitudinal axis.
 7. Thefluid conduit connector of claim 5, further comprising a plurality ofconnection rods, each connection rod configured to be disposed in acorresponding hole of the second array of holes, and extending out ofthe first side and out of the second side.
 8. The fluid conduitconnector of claim 6, wherein each connection rod is threaded at a firstend and at a second end.
 9. The fluid conduit connector of claim 8,wherein: each connection rod has a longitudinal axis and a secondnominal cross sectional area measured transverse to the longitudinalaxis; and a total count of every hole of the first array of holesmultiplied by the first nominal cross sectional area is no greater thana total count of every hole of the second array of holes multiplied bythe second nominal cross sectional area.
 10. The fluid conduit connectorof claim 1, wherein the fluid connector forms at least part of a valvebody.
 11. A fluid conduit connector system, comprising: a first fluidconduit connector including: a first body having a first opening at afirst side and a second opening at a second side, a throughboreextending from the first opening to the second opening, a first array ofholes in the first side positioned around the first opening, each holeof the first array of holes terminating within the first body, and asecond array of holes in the first side positioned around the firstarray of holes, each hole of the second array of holes extending throughthe first body to the second side; a second fluid conduit connectorincluding: a second body having a first opening at a first side and asecond opening at a second side, a throughbore extending from the firstopening to the second opening, a first array of holes in the second sidepositioned around the second opening, each hole of the first array ofholes terminating within the second body, and a second array of holes inthe first side positioned around the first opening; and a plurality ofconnection rods; wherein upon assembly: the first side of the secondbody is positioned adjacent to and facing the second side of the firstbody, the first opening of the second body is aligned with the secondopening of the first body, and each connection rod extends through acorresponding hole of the second array of holes in the first body fromthe first side of the first body, out of the second side of the firstbody, and into a corresponding hole of the second array of holes in thesecond body.
 12. The fluid conduit connector system of claim 11, whereinthe first fluid connector forms at least part of a valve body.
 13. Thefluid conduit connector system of claim 12, wherein each hole of thesecond array of holes of the second fluid conduit connector extendsthrough the second body to the second side, and further wherein uponassembly, each connection rod extends out of the second side of thesecond body.
 14. The fluid conduit connector system of claim 13, whereinupon assembly, a seal is disposed around the second opening of the firstbody and between the second side of the first body and the first side ofthe second body.
 15. The fluid conduit connector system of claim 11,wherein each hole of the second array of holes in the second body isthreaded, and further wherein upon assembly, each connection rod iscoupled to a corresponding hole of the second array of holes in thesecond body.
 16. The fluid conduit connector system of claim 15, whereinupon assembly, each connection rod has a corresponding fastener securingeach connection rod to the first body.
 17. The fluid conduit connectorsystem of claim 11, wherein each hole of the second array of holes inthe second body extends through the second body to the second side, andfurther wherein upon assembly, each connection rod has a correspondingfirst fastener securing each connection rod to the first body and acorresponding second fastener securing each connection rod to the secondbody.